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Cats/Leaving my cat while on trip
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Question
I have to leave my two cats, one indoors and one outdoors for an extended period. Approx 3-4 weeks. I do not want to put them in a shelter so I have my sister coming by once a day to feed and check on them. Are they going to be O.K. what can I expect
Hi Brenda,
Having someone check on them once a day is fine. I assume that she will feed, water, an change litters in that time period. You might want to put a TV or radio on a timer for the inside cat. This makes a big difference in how cats take the separation.
Make sure you have a backup in place in case your sister can't make for whatever reason. And maybe the backup person can check every few days just to make sure all is ok. Leave a couple of self waterers out. And the same with self feeders. They should be ok. When you come be prepared for them not to leave you alone. They will miss you and be happy when you come back. Good luck.
Ciao, Karen
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks, My sister will be doing everything that you mentioned and I think the TV idea is great. I thought about it but was not sure it would make any difference. I really appreciate your quick response. I will be leaving out in the morning so you response is right on time. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Karen Craft
Expertise
I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!
Experience
I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care.
Some thoughts to carry with you.
A Cat's 10 Commandments
My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
Give me time to understand what you want of me.
Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you.
Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you.
If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong.
Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.
Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.
Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.
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